Mae Zell Ashley

Mrs. Mae Zell (Dismute) Ashley was born on February 12, 1954, in Harrell, Arkansas, as the ninth child of the late Johnny and Rena Dismute. She accepted Christ at an early age and became a member of First Baptist Church in Harrell, where she remained a devoted and faithful member throughout her life.

Mae attended Calhoun County Primary School in Thornton, Arkansas, and graduated from Hampton High School in 1972. Shortly after, she married the love of her life, the late James Ashley, on March 30, 1973. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith.

She worked for many years as a machine operator at Jack Winter and DMA, Inc., where she was recognized with an award for her skill and dedication. Later, she joined General Dynamics in Hampton, Arkansas, as an inspector. Known for her diligence, Mae often studied manuals and materials in her spare time to ensure she performed her job with excellence. She continued working until her health no longer allowed.

Beyond her professional life, Mae was deeply involved in her church community. She faithfully served in many roles including Sunday School teacher for the primary class, choir member, assistant church clerk (a position she held until her passing), assistant Sunday School secretary, and usher—often serving side by side with her beloved niece, Sister Maneat Dismute. Maneat played a special role in Mae’s life, lovingly helping care for both her and her husband during their times of illness.

Family was at the center of Mae’s heart. She and Mr. Ashley were blessed with four children: Allison Ann, Christopher, Darrel, and Allison Denise. She cherished the time she spent with her family and friends—sharing stories, laughter, and memorable activities. She especially enjoyed fishing, growing flowers, crocheting, and shopping. Known for her thoughtful nature, she never forgot a birthday and always made loved ones feel special. Her soft, infectious laugh, warm smile, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed.

Mae leaves to cherish her memory: Two sons, Christopher Ashley of Hampton, Arkansas, and Darrel Ashley (Melissa) of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; One daughter, Allison Tucker (Reco) of Camden, Arkansas; Three sisters, Peggy Moore and Jearlean Smith, both of Hampton, Arkansas, and Linda Alexander (Reginal) of Little Rock, Arkansas; Two brothers, John Dismute (Margaret) of Harrell, Arkansas, and Lonny Dismute (Georgia) of Fordyce, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by six siblings and one child.

She is also survived by two aunts, Marjorie Moore (James) of Winslow, Arizona, and Gloria Golden of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Three sisters-in-law, Wanda Owens of Columbus, Ohio, and Jimmie Johnson (Lionel) of Hampton, Arkansas and JoAnn Dismute of Harrell, Arkansas; twelve grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Pallbearers will be Brother Stanley Green, Brother Greg Moore, Brother Tony Ferguson, Brother Jason Moore, Deacon Karl Miles, Brother Randy Moore and Brother Jonathan Smith. Honorary pallbearers her nephews and nieces.